Middle is a local government-owned dam located in Clatsop, Oregon, on Bear Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at 39 feet high and serves primarily for water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. The dam has a surface area of 9.4 acres and a drainage area of 4 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second.
Despite being categorized with a high hazard potential, Middle is currently in fair condition as of its last inspection in August 2020. It features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and has a hydraulic height of 37 feet. The dam spans 410 feet in length and is regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Middle represents a vital infrastructure that contributes to the local water supply in the region. Its location in Svensen, Oregon, along with its historical significance and functionality, make it an important asset that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the sustainability of the water resources it serves.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
39 |
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|
1820cfs |
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430000cfs |
Nehalem River Near Vernonia
|
464cfs |
Nehalem River Near Foss
|
12200cfs |
South Fork Chehalis River Near Wildwood
|
652cfs |
Cowlitz River At Castle Rock
|
37100cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
nicoli mnt ohv ( lookout rock quarry )
|
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Saddle Mountain Campground
|
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Saddle Mountain State Park
|